April 2015
RECENT ECONOMIC AND o-y against the U.S. dollar. The overall real effective
SECTORAL DEVELOPMENTS exchange rate (REER) appreciated by 5.3 percent y-
o-y. Inflation has remained low, at 1.3 percent y-o-y
Growth and External Performance as of end-February 2015 (well below the inflation
target of 5 percent), largely because of the decline in
oil prices and the appreciation of the REER. The
GDP growth was 4.8 percent in 2014,
National Bank of Georgia (NBG) has retained its
representing a recovery after the slowdown in
commitment to a flexible exchange rate regime.
2013, though the effects of the Russia crisis
started to hit the economy in the fourth quarter Figure 2. Inflation and Real Exchange Rate (y-o-y)
of the year. Growth in 2014 was largely due to %)
recovering private investment and domestic 10%
demand. A brisk expansion in construction, which 5%
grew by 16.3 percent, spurred overall investment to
0%
increase to 28.5 percent of GDP at the end of the
third quarter in 2014, the highest since the 2008 -5%
crisis. However, the spillover effects from the -10%
Mar
Mar
May
Jul
Nov
May
Jul
Nov
Jan
Jan
Jan
Sep
Sep
slowdown in Russia in the last quarter of 2014 led
to a significant drop in exports, remittances, and
tourism. As a result, despite the beneficial impact of 2013 2014 2015
the decline in oil prices, the current account deficit CPI REER
is estimated to have widened to 9.7 percent of GDP
in 2014 with net foreign direct investment (FDI) at Source: Geostat, NBG, and staff calculations.
6.6 percent of GDP.
Fiscal Developments
Figure 1. Quarterly GDP Growth (percent)
The Government is likely to submit an
7.6 amendment to the 2015 budget. The planned
7.2
2015 budget, passed by Parliament in December
2014, was based on a growth projection of 5
5.2
5.6
percent. General government revenues in 2014
exceeded the previous year’s collections by 8.3
percent. Indirect taxes increased by 14.9 percent
(import-led value added tax [VAT] increased by 16
2.4
percent) and direct taxes grew by 1.3 percent.
1.6 1.6
1.4 Further improvements in revenue collections were
0.5 envisaged for 2015 through improved tax
administration; however, this is unlikely now
Q1 2013 Q2 2013 Q3 2013 Q4 2013 Q1 2014 Q2 2014 Q3 2014 Q4 2014 Jan-15
because of shrinking aggregate demand and falling
There are significant downside risks to growth growth.
in 2015 stemming from the external
environment. Growth is now projected at 2 Georgia’s public debt remains sustainable.
percent, mainly because of deteriorating export Total public sector debt increased from 32.2 percent
prospects and slowing investment. Exports in of GDP in 2013 to 33.3 percent in 2014. About 80
January 2015 were close to the levels in January percent of public debt in 2014 was external and
2012, a fall of 30 percent year-on-year (y-o-y). As the dominated by long-term multilateral (70 percent)
external accounts worsened and in response to the and bilateral (20 percent) debt. Given the highly
depreciating currencies of Georgia’s trading concessional nature of public debt, interest
partners, the Georgia lari (GEL) depreciated by 26.7 payments average at around 1 percent of GDP a
percent against the U.S. dollar between November year. Nearly 75 percent of external public debt is at
2014 and March 2015. In real terms, however, as of fixed interest rates, thereby reducing interest rate
end-January 2015, the lari had appreciated by 51 risk. During 2014, the Government issued securities
percent y-o-y against the ruble and by 8 percent y-o- of GEL 898.5 million in order to finance the fiscal
y against the euro, while depreciating by 8 percent y- deficit, increasing domestic public debt by GEL 554
million (2 percent of GDP) to 6.5 percent. Domestic
2
financing of the deficit, which eases exchange Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia) and
market pressures, will continue in 2015. remittances, nearly 35 percent of which originated
in Russia in January 2015 (compared to 50 percent
Medium-Term Outlook in 2014). In 2016, some deterioration of the current
account is likely, with a pickup in investment-related
Economic growth is projected to average 3.6 imports and domestic demand but a limited increase
percent a year over the medium term, but in exports. From 2017 onward, external
downside risks to growth remain. GDP growth sustainability will be supported by a recovery in
is expected to increase to 3.0 percent in 2016. The export markets and some gains from the continued
Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area focus on competitiveness.
(DCFTA) and the Association Agreement with the
European Union (EU) are likely to improve market Public Financial Management (PFM)
access, exports, and FDI in the medium term.
However, in the short term, this will involve costs, Georgia has significantly advanced in public
as producers upgrade their facilities to meet required sector management practices. The success stories
quality standards. Georgia receives little FDI from of public financial reforms, such as strengthened
Russia or Ukraine and energy imports are mainly cash management, comprehensive control systems
from Azerbaijan, but spillover effects are likely from that avoid the accumulation of arrears, a transparent
geopolitical uncertainties and potential longer-term public procurement system, improved systems of
stagnation in the EU. external audit and oversight, and a strong e-
governance focus—all are examples of how
The authorities are committed to prudent fiscal consolidated government efforts can achieve
management over the medium term, anchored tangible results. At the same time, for
in an International Monetary Fund (IMF) macroeconomic stability, centralized decision
program that remains on track. During 2015, making has been instrumental in enforcing fiscal
some increase in revenues is likely from the tobacco rules and budget discipline. These topics, with
excise tax and the introduction of an excise tax on reliable fiscal reporting, comprise the basics for
international calls. There will be a modest increase initiating a second generation of financial and fiscal
in expenditures on health (drug coverage under reforms.
universal health care) and education (increased
teacher salaries), while other current expenditures The Ministry of Finance is in the process of
will be held constant. Various measures are under increasing its capacity to monitor the cash
consideration to improve fiscal outcomes over the management of local self-governments, legal
medium term. These include increased expenditure entities of public law (LEPLs), and nonprofit
efficiencies in social benefits, reforms in public legal entities (NPLEs). This will be undertaken
investment management, and limits on other through integrating them into the Public Financial
nonessential expenditures. The large infrastructure Management Information System (PFMIS), which
deficit necessitates large capital spending in Georgia, will help to monitor and manage their cash balances
which is expected to be 5–6 percent of GDP. The throughout the budget cycle. It will also help
Government has an efficient tax administration and promote better management of intergovernmental
cannot easily increase tax rates; hence, fiscal transfers.
consolidation will come from the expenditure side.
Strong financial and fiscal management
Lower domestic demand, the decline in systems are especially important due to the
investment, and the lari depreciation’s impact increased fiscal risks from state-owned
on imports are likely to reduce the current enterprises (SOEs) and emerging social and
account deficit in 2015. In addition, lower oil pension obligations. The lack of adequate central
prices will also reduce the import bill. Georgia’s monitoring systems for SOEs and of reporting
exports are expected to remain subdued in 2015 standards and a framework for non-budget
because of lower demand from its key trading operations is a bottleneck to fiscal transparency and
partners. In addition, there are downside risks to accountability. The Government has identified this
tourism receipts (the main tourist arrivals are from issue as one of the critical challenges in the PFM
2
framework and has been addressing them with pressures on local firms’ growth and debt service
World Bank support through the Inclusive Growth capacity. In addition, a nearly 50 percent reduction
Development Policy Operation (DPO) series and in the flow of remittances from Ukraine and Russia
the Programmatic PFM and Governance Task. in December 2014 may also jeopardize the capacity
of households in credit repayment.
The coverage and quality of the internal audit
function have been improved. Twenty-nine Currency depreciation raises concerns about
internal audit units in 12 ministries accounting for potential credit and refinancing risks for the
54 percent of total state budget expenditures have highly dollarized credit portfolio. Despite the
been established. The Internal Audit Methodology, increased share of GEL lending, 61 percent of the
standards, and code of ethics are in line with loan portfolio remains denominated in foreign
international standards. currency (figure 3), while the vast majority of
borrowers do not have foreign currency revenues,
The Bank’s ongoing support to the public especially nonexporting micro, small, and medium-
administration sector in Georgia includes a sized enterprises (MSMEs) and households. This
series of DPOs and a Programmatic PFM and exposes banks to significant currency-induced credit
Governance Task that covers the FY15–17 period, risk, as evidenced by the recent decision of some
and a Strengthening Accountability and the larger banks to restructure/extend maturities for
Fiduciary Environment (SAFE) grant–funded their foreign exchange–denominated loans to
project on IT Audit Development in the State Audit smooth the higher debt costs for borrowers. To
Office of Georgia. foster local currency lending, the NBG increased the
volume of long-term GEL refinancing in 2013–14.
Financial Sector Performance The program of NBG mortgage lending support
resulted in a reduction in the household foreign
The banking sector continued to grow rapidly exchange–denominated loans from their peak of 71
in 2014. As of July 2014, banking sector assets had percent in 2009 to 43 percent in 2014. Still, 78
grown by 19 percent (versus 26 percent asset growth percent of corporate loans remain foreign currency
in 2013), reaching 73 percent of GDP compared to denominated.
64 percent of GDP in 2013 (y-o-y) and 70.5 percent
Figure 3. Share of Foreign Currency Loans and
of GDP compared to 66.1 percent of GDP at the
Deposits
end of that year. Total loans (excluding interbank
loans) increased by 18 percent and reached 44 FX loans, % of total loans
percent of GDP compared to 37 percent of GDP at FX deposits, % of total deposits
end-2013. Total deposits grew by 21 percent and
80%
reached 44 percent of GDP compared to 38 percent
70%
of GDP a year before.
60%
50%
The financial sector remains sound and well
Sep-06
Sep-07
Sep-08
Sep-09
Sep-10
Sep-11
Sep-12
Sep-13
Sep-14
May-06
May-07
May-08
May-09
May-10
May-11
May-12
May-13
May-14
Jan-06
Jan-07
Jan-08
Jan-09
Jan-10
Jan-11
Jan-12
Jan-13
Jan-14
Jan-15
capitalized. However, banking sector performance
needs to be carefully monitored in light of the
potential growth of nonperforming loans (NPLs) Source: NBG.
and subsequent capital erosion due to foreign
exchange and growing credit risks. The aggregate The banking sector has sufficient liquidity,
banking sector capital adequacy ratio (CAR) supported by the growth of client deposits and
increased to 17.4 percent from 17.2 percent at the access to international lending markets. During
end of 2013, well above the minimum regulatory the period of July 2013–July 2014, client deposits on
requirement of 12 percent. Return on equity (ROE) the books of banks grew by 22 percent, reaching 42
and return on assets (ROA) surged to 14.8 percent percent of GDP in July 2014 compared to 39
and 2.6 percent, respectively. NPLs as calculated percent at end-2013. Liquid assets to total assets
based on NBG methodology slightly increased from slightly decreased to 24.7 percent in July 2014 (from
7.5 percent in 2013 to 7.6 in 2014. Export growth 27.5 percent at end-2013) due to lending growth.
reduction and lower domestic demand might exert
3
The Georgian financial system remains heavily IFC supported microfinance lending by
bank dominated, with a negligent non-bank providing a US$4 million loan to FINCA
financial services market and a dormant private Georgia, a leading microfinance institution in the
securities market. Twenty-one private commercial country, to increase lending to micro and small
banks, including two branches of foreign banks, businesses, thus creating jobs, boosting the
hold more than 90 percent of total financial sector economy, and reducing poverty, especially in rural
assets. Growth of the non-bank financial sector is areas.
constrained by the lack of funds in the absence of
deposits and capital markets and by the limited Private Sector Development
access to international lending due to the sector’s
small size. Georgia has undergone extensive public sector
and business environment reforms over the past
The Financial Sector Advisory Program (FSAP) several years, as recognized by its Doing Business
2014 Update Report suggested that Georgia’s rankings, especially in such areas as business entry,
sustainable growth outlook strongly depends on deregulation and construction permits, and tax and
increasing national savings and investments customs reforms. This has attracted a large influx of
and enhancing the competitiveness of exports. FDI, spurred robust tourism growth, and facilitated
Thus, the financial sector needs to play a much more new business entry.
proactive role both in savings mobilization and
financial intermediation to cater to the needs of the However, the favorable business environment
real economy. has so far had only a moderate impact on the
country’s competitiveness. FDI has largely been
The World Bank group supports improving the concentrated in non-tradables and tourism and has
liquidity and capital of the banking sector and been associated with a high propensity to import.
enhancing access to finance for SMEs. The Bank Although Georgia significantly increased export
program includes analytical and advisory works, diversification during 2000–10, adding more than
completing a comprehensive survey of 500 SMEs to 200 new products to its export bundle, the export
assess their financial demands and identify basket remains fairly unsophisticated, with low value
constraints in access to finance. added and high labor intensiveness. Moreover,
according to the 2013 World Bank Enterprise
To respond to the crisis and provide counter- Survey, only 9 percent of surveyed entrepreneurs
cyclical support, during fiscal years 2009-2014, indicated that their firm had introduced new or
International Finance Corporation (IFC) provided substantially improved products or services in the
about $280 million in long-term finance, including previous years. More than 90 percent of surveyed
debt and equity investments, to Georgia’s financial firms had had no research and development (R&D)
sector. In addition, IFC worked with three leading expenditures in the previous five years and did not
banks to provide trade finance guarantees for envision spending on R&D in the next two years.
export-import operations. IFC has adjusted its
product mix to better respond to the needs of the Figure 4. Percentage of Firms that have Developed
economy by offering trade financing and swaps (for New Products in the Past Three Years
interest rate and foreign currency risks) to its clients. 60 51
In 2014, the IFC Capitalization Fund, a fund 45
managed by the IFC Asset Management Company, 40 35
invested US$65 million in the Bank of Georgia, the 25
country’s largest bank, to help the bank increase 20 9 7
domestic access to finance and foster sustained
economic growth. IFC has also provided advisory 0
services to the financial sector to strengthen its risk Geo FSU S ECA
management capacity and thereby reduce the
2008 2013
country’s vulnerability to future economic
downturns. Source: World Bank Enterprise Survey.
4
While globally the SME sector is the main same period. Using a poverty line developed for
source of private sector growth, innovation, and national analysis (GEL 70.8 per adult equivalent per
jobs, in Georgia it remains small and month in 2007 prices), a notable reduction is also
underdeveloped. Although SMEs account for visible, with poverty falling from 18 to 14.8 percent
nearly 94 percent of registered firms in Georgia and between 2010 and 2012. Extreme poverty rates
38 percent of formal employment, they bring less based on the national food poverty line have also
than 20 percent of gross value added and account decreased considerably in the same period, falling
for less than 18 percent of turnover. The growth of from 6.7 percent in 2010 to 3.7 in 2012.
SMEs is constrained by the poor skills match, low
technological preparedness, restricted access to In spite of the considerable poverty reduction
infrastructure, and underdeveloped value chains and observed in recent years, rural areas still lag
local suppliers markets. The productivity of behind and register poverty rates almost twice
Georgian firms, especially SMEs, remains as large as urban areas. Using the US$2.5 per day
inadequate, particularly in agriculture, due to poor line (2013), poverty was estimated to affect almost
technological preparedness and low business one in every two rural households. In urban areas,
sophistication and innovation. in contrast, poverty was considerably lower,
affecting one out of every four households. Poverty
Still, access to finance is named as the largest estimations based on the national poverty line show
constraint to firms’ growth. The share of SME a similar result (2012), with poverty rates of almost
lending in Georgia is only 8 percent of GDP 20 percent in rural areas but close to 10 percent in
compared to 16 percent for the middle-income urban centers.
countries and 21 percent for the Europe and Central
Asia (ECA) region on average. Loans to SMEs Compared to other members of the
represent only 20 percent of banks’ private sector Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS),
loan portfolio. Georgia is still among the countries with the
highest poverty rates. Under ECA poverty lines of
A new series of private sector development US$2.5 and US$5 per day, Georgia’s poverty rates
DPOs is included in the World Bank’s current are close to Armenia and the Kyrgyz Republic,
Country Partnership Strategy (CPS), which is aimed emerging as one of the poorest countries in the
at supporting efforts to spur inclusive economic region.
growth through second generation business
environment reforms, financial sector deepening Social assistance has played an important role
and diversification, and initiatives to increase firms’ in poverty reduction in recent years. Social
capacity to innovate and export, thus fostering spending has recently increased and has been an
private sector growth, access to finance, and export important driver in lifting households out of
competitiveness. IFC continues its support to the poverty. Pension benefits were raised for pensioners
private sector through direct equity investments and above 67 from GEL 70 in 2009 to GEL 100 in 2011,
lending, a trade facilitation program, and the South GEL 125 in September 2012, and GEL 150 in
Caucasus Growth Fund (created jointly with the September 2013. Coverage and benefits have also
European Bank for Reconstruction and increased for the targeted programs, both the
Development [EBRD] and other donors and targeted social assistance (TSA) and the Medical
managed by the Small Enterprise Assistance Fund Insurance Program (MIP). In the case of TSA, the
[SEAF]). household benefit doubled in 2013. Also in 2013,
the Government introduced the Universal Health
Poverty and Shared Prosperity Coverage (UHC) program, oriented to provide
coverage for the large segment of the population
Poverty rates have considerably decreased since without any health insurance. In addition, in 2013,
the peak observed in 2010. The poverty rate at the Ministry of Agriculture provided GEL 300
US$2.5 per day (purchasing power parity corrected) vouchers to about 600,000 farmers for work during
fell from a peak of 47 percent in 2010 to 36 percent the spring harvest. These actions are estimated to
in 2013. The poverty rate at US$5 per day followed have helped the poor, especially in rural areas.
the same trend, falling from 81 to 73 percent in the
5
Picture 1. Social Service Agency at Mtatsminda expenditures of the top 10 percent (90th percentile)
Branch in Tbilisi and the bottom 10 percent, has remained between
5.8 and 6.1 over the same period. Consumption
inequality is consistently greater in rural than in
urban areas. For example, in 2011, the rural Gini was
39.32 while the urban Gini was lower at 38.03;
moreover, the ratio of the top 10 percent’s
consumption to that of the bottom 10 percent was
6.21 for rural residents and 5.66 for urban residents.
Health
Trends in Georgia’s health indicators point to
Employment has played only a limited role in steady improvement. Considerable progress has
been observed in terms of achieving the Millennium
poverty reduction, and high unemployment is
Development Goals (MDGs) for health; for
persistent (14.6 percent in 2013). High
example, the under-5 mortality per 1,000 live births
unemployment in Georgia is caused primarily by
weak labor demand, as firms expand more from dropped from 47 in 1990 to 13.0 in 2013. The
maternal mortality rate fell from 50 deaths per
productivity improvements than from increasing
employment. However, there are also problems on 100,000 live births in 1990 to 41 in the same period.
the supply side. Despite high unemployment, Life expectancy increased from 70.3 years in 1995 to
including among university graduates, many firms 75.2 years in 2012.
find it difficult to recruit workers with the right
High private expenditures on health remain a
skills. Addressing the skills gap is thus one of the key
challenge. Total private health expenditures have
challenges facing the education and training
systems. In addition, low-productivity employment, significantly increased in recent years and represent
10 percent of GDP, which is almost twice that of
especially in agriculture, is the main factor behind
the high incidence of in-work poverty in Georgia. comparable countries. Over 70 percent of total
health expenditures are out-of-pocket, and the
leading causes of household impoverishment in
Overall, Georgia has fared poorly on the World
Georgia were costs related to hospitalization and the
Bank Group’s measure of shared prosperity,
treatment/management of chronic diseases and
with some gains in recent years. The
acute health conditions. In 2014, the budget for
consumption of the bottom 40 percent of the
distribution grew at only 0.7 percent per year health was doubled in nominal terms, an increase by
compared to 2 percent for the overall population 75 percent when measured as a share of the budget
over 2006–08. During the 2008–09 financial crisis, or as a share of GDP. The ratio of health spending
the picture worsened considerably, as the to GDP is expected to rise to over 2 percent in 2015,
though this is still lower than the ECA regional
consumption of the bottom 40 percent of the
average.
population contracted by almost 5 percent per year
in this period compared to a contraction of only 2 Georgia is rapidly moving toward achieving
percent for the overall population. With an annual universal health coverage, thus improving the
growth in consumption of 5.4 percent between 2010 financial protection of its citizens. Since the
and 2012, the bottom 40 percent fared better post- introduction of the UHC program, Georgia now has
crisis, as they benefited from a fiscal stimulus, a foundation of universal entitlements within its
improved earnings, and falling food and energy health system. The World Bank, the U.S. Agency for
prices. International Development (USAID), and the
World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a
Inequality in consumption has changed little stock-taking exercise of these reforms that indicated
over time. In Georgia, the Gini coefficient was 39.1 that a majority of the Georgians surveyed view the
in 2007 and 38.8 in 2012. Another measure of program positively and are satisfied with the
inequality, the ratio of mean consumption planned out-patient care.
6
The Bank continues to support the health sector Recent Government initiatives to address the
in Georgia through technical assistance and quality constraints in education include the
development policy lending. Currently, the Bank, formulation of a strategic vision for the sector’s
together with the USAID and WHO, is supporting development called “Main Directions for
a Health Utilization and Expenditure Survey, Education and Science Development, 2014–2024.”
providing the analytic underpinnings for the future Other efforts include continued reform of school
improvement of the UHC and other health policies. curricula, improved focus on teacher qualifications
Bank support will also focus on improving the through reforming the existing teacher policy
delivery and quality of health care, aiming at framework, a new teacher evaluation and
increased primary care utilization and improved professional development system, updated school-
health outcomes for all Georgian citizens. leaving examinations using Computer Adaptive
Testing (CAT), and an enhanced focus on reforming
Education the vocational education and training (VET) sector
and improving quality assurance in higher
Georgia compares well to comparator countries education.
in the ECA region in terms of enrollment rates
at basic education levels, despite relatively modest Picture 2. Jugaani School in Kakheti, One of the
levels of public expenditure at approximately 2.9 Seven Schools Built with World Bank Assistance
percent of GDP in 2013. Notwithstanding the fact
that education spending in Georgia is considerably
lower than the ECA average of 4 percent, gross
enrollment for basic education is almost universal.
For upper secondary education, the gross
enrollment rate remains low at 73 percent. Gender
parity has generally been achieved at all levels of
education enrollment.
Improving the quality of education and student
learning outcomes is a key challenge facing
Georgia, based on international student assessment
results. The majority of students in Georgia The Bank supports the quality of Georgia’s
demonstrate below average levels of performance in general education through the Growth and
reading, mathematics, and science. Over 60 percent Competitiveness Development Policy
of 15-year-old Georgian students were found to be Operation. In addition, the Bank mobilized
three years behind their peers on the reading scale Institutional Development Fund (IDF) grant
compared to Organisation for Economic Co- funding to support capacity building in teacher and
operation and Development (OECD) average school principal evaluation. Most recently, the Bank
scores in the Program for International Student conducted a detailed review of education public
Assessment (PISA) 2009 plus. The education expenditure as part of the broader Public
outcomes also indicate important differences Expenditure Review (PER) in 2014 and a
between students from various socioeconomic comprehensive Education Sector Policy Review
backgrounds and places of residence. Similarly, (2014) aimed at supporting the Ministry of
according to the Trends in International Education and Science in developing a strategic plan
Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and in preparation for the next phase of sector reforms.
Progress in International Reading Literacy Study The Bank has also provided technical assistance
(PIRLS) 2011 results, the academic performance of through Programmatic Education Sector Support to
Georgian students in key learning domains (literacy, inform policy dialogue in strategic areas identified as
mathematics, and science) remains low compared to priorities by the Government.
CIS, Central and East European (CEE), and
Western European countries.
7
Agriculture drainage agencies and infrastructure, is currently
under implementation.
The share of agriculture in total GDP has
significantly declined from 12.8 percent in 2006 IFC is supporting the agriculture sector
to 9.3 percent in 2013, but it remains an important through advice and targeted investments. IFC
sector. Agricultural production accounts for 45 has committed two loans (US$1.5 million and US$2
percent of rural household income, and subsistence million) to Georgian wine producer and exporter
agriculture accounts for 73 percent of rural Tbilvino. Following receipt of the first loan in 2011,
employment. Agriculture also makes a significant Tbilvino’s farmer-suppliers more than tripled. With
contribution to exports. the new loan, this number is expected to increase
further, creating employment opportunities in rural
The agriculture sector is still recovering from areas and benefiting small farmers.
the 2006 collapse. At that time, the cultivated area
fell from around 525,000 to 325,000 hectares, largely The IFC Georgia Food Safety Improvement
caused by the Russian trade embargo, which was Project has helped improve food safety practices
followed by the dismantling of public services in among Georgian food producers, boosting
agriculture (such as extension and veterinary competitiveness and sales.
services) and low levels of public investment in
agricultural infrastructure (particularly irrigation) up Picture 3. A Mushroom Production Company
to 2011. Wine, fruit, nuts, and mineral water are
currently driving agricultural export growth.
Weak land markets and poor access to irrigation
are two key factors impeding private investment
in agriculture and undermining growth. During
the past 25 years, the irrigated area has declined
from 386,000 hectares in 1988 to 25,000 hectares in
2013 due to weak investment in irrigation
infrastructure and institutions. In addition, while
Georgia has a modern national registration agency,
it is estimated that only 15–20 percent of land titles
are registered. Road Infrastructure
The current Government has attached a high Georgia’s geographical location positions the
priority to agricultural sector development, with country at the center of East-West (Black Sea
a strong focus on rebuilding irrigation and other and Caspian Sea) and North-South (between
agricultural services, promoting land market Russia and Turkey) transit routes. Trade with
development, and developing a strategy to neighboring countries is therefore an important
harmonize food safety legislation with EU driver of the economy. Once completed, the East-
requirements in line with the Association West Highway will help Georgia emerge as a
Agreement. In 2010, Georgia started implementing regional transport hub, providing direct access to 2.2
food safety provisions that had been suspended million people, or around half of the country’s
since 2006. The Food Safety Law was amended to population, and reducing travel time by an average
extend inspections and traceability to all food and of 40 percent. The completion of the East-West
feed operators and the country developed a training Highway project will also contribute to improving
program for inspectors in 2011. Georgia’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI).
The Bank has supported the agriculture sector Nevertheless, Georgia still has significant
of Georgia through analytical work and challenges ahead to improve its logistics and
investment operations. A US$50 million irrigation competitiveness. Georgia’s infrastructure deficits
and land market development project, aimed at are still a major component of this lower
establishing land rights and improving irrigation and performance.
8
Road rehabilitation has been a key Government potential is being utilized. Georgia generated about
priority since 2004. Sizable investments have been 10 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity in 2013, about
made in the rehabilitation and upgrade of the East- 82 percent of which was generated by hydropower
West Highway and the improvement of the stations. Several new hydropower stations are under
secondary and local road network. The Bank has construction, which will increase the country’s
provided over US$600 million to the road sector of installed capacity by about 16 percent.
Georgia, and plans to continue this financing in the
coming years. Ongoing Bank-financed investments The Bank’s support to the energy sector includes
in the East-West Highway include upgrading the E- analytical work (a regional analytical study has been
60 highway from Ruisi to Agara and the Agara- concluded to assess power trade and demand in the
Zemo-Osiauri road sections, and constructing the South Caucasus and Turkey), reforms under the
Agara bypass. In addition, the Bank finances the Competitiveness and Growth DPO series, and a
rehabilitation and improvement of up to 200 US$60 million investment project aimed at
kilometers of various sections of the secondary and strengthening the country’s transmission grid and
local road network throughout Georgia and the electricity exchange systems.
piloting of a new contracting methodology for the
road network in the Kakheti region. IFC is helping Georgia realize its significant
renewable energy potential by investing US$40.5
Picture 4. A Section of the East-West Highway million in the Paravani hydropower plant.
Together with Clean Energy Group and Tata
Power, IFC has also participated in the early
development of the Shuakhevi hydropower
project, part of the Adjaristsqali Cascade,
through IFC InfraVentures, an early stage
project developer. The US$250 million debt
financing arranged by IFC for the Shuakhevi
project, represents the largest private hydropower
investment in Georgia, consisting of two US$90
million long-term senior loans, one each from the
Asian Development Bank (ADB) and EBRD, and
US$70 million from IFC. IFC’s total investment in
Energy this project is US$104 million, which includes a
US$34 million equity investment in the project
company, Adjaristsqali Georgia, a joint venture
Georgia has developed a stable and reliable
between Tata Power and Clean Energy Invest (40
energy sector that delivers services to customers in
percent each), and IFC (20 percent).
a sustainable manner, resulting from a series of
reforms that included unbundling, privatization, and
The Shuakhevi project is the first hydropower
tariff adjustments to a cost-recovery level. Recent
plant in Georgia certified by the United Nations
economic growth translated into a 3 percent
Framework Convention on Climate Change for
increase in the demand for electricity in 2013, and in
carbon emission reductions. It is expected to
that year, Georgia continued to be fully self-
produce about 450 gigawatt hours of power
sufficient in electricity. However, it still relies on
annually and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by
seasonal electricity exchanges with a single
more than 200,000 tons per year. The project will
neighboring country, which undermines the security
develop the 187-megawatt Shuakhevi hydropower
of its supplies and poses a risk of seasonal electricity
scheme, consisting of the Shuakhevi and Skhalta
shortages.
hydropower plants located in the Adjara region in
southwest Georgia. Work on the plant began in
Georgia has vast hydropower resources that are
September 2013 with a target to start producing
underutilized but have enormous potential. At
electricity in 2016.
present, only 12 percent of Georgia’s hydropower
9
The Shuakhevi hydropower plant will satisfy The Government recognizes the importance of
electricity demand during winter, reducing building local infrastructure, not only to
dependence on imported fuel and increasing increase the well-being of the population but
renewable energy output. It will also foster cross- also as a key element in promoting growth. The
border electricity trading at other times of the year urban and rural roads, water, and sanitation
by exporting electricity to Turkey through a infrastructure has remained in need of substantial
transmission line financed by the European Bank rehabilitation in most of the country. Today, only
for Reconstruction and Development(EBRD). The slightly more than half of Georgian households in
project will benefit local communities by helping rural areas have indoor bathroom facilities, only 78
create jobs, boosting municipal incomes, and percent of urban households are connected to a
upgrading area roads. piped water and sewerage system, and only five out
of 29 wastewater treatment plants have marginal
IFC’s investment will be complemented by functionality.
World Bank financing of the power
transmission line, which will connect the plant to Tourism Development
Georgia’s national grid and improve power supply
to the Adjara region. One of the potential drivers of economic growth
in cities and regions is tourism, which has seen
Municipal and Regional Development rapid growth in Georgia over the past decade and
has become an important source of job creation and
Georgia’s municipal and regional development foreign exchange income. The number of visitors
faces three main challenges: wide regional increased from 560,000 in 2005 to 5 million in 2013,
disparities, insufficient municipal infrastructure, and with 6.3 million expected in 2015. An integrated and
incomplete decentralization. The Government’s demand-driven approach to regional development
priorities include support for decentralization, has been designed with the support of the Bank and
comprehensive local self-government reforms, is currently seen as critical to spurring growth and
democratic governance, and more efficient public job creation in historic cities and cultural villages.
service delivery. A Decentralization Strategy setting
out a sound and transparent framework for the Picture 5. Dartlo Village, Tusheti
public financing of municipal and regional
development has been prepared, and an amendment
to the Organic Law of Local Self-Governments
(LSGs) was adopted by the Cabinet and the
Parliament in February 2014. The new law paves the
way for a more decentralized service delivery
mechanism, increased LSG accountability, and
institutional capacity building to establish an
effective LSG system.
Georgia has adopted a State Strategy for
Regional Development to create a favorable
environment for regional socioeconomic The Bank supports regional development
development and to improve living standards. These through a multi-sectoral approach. The first
two goals are to be achieved through the adoption Regional Development Project (RDP, US$60 million),
of balanced socioeconomic development policies, focuses on the Kakheti region, and the second
increased competitiveness, and greater Regional Development Project (RDPII, US$30 million),
socioeconomic equality among the regions. In focuses on the Imereti region. The Swedish
regions with low income per capita or high rates of International Development Cooperation Agency
poverty, the state has focused on social issues; in (SIDA) has provided an additional US$10 million
others, it has chosen to focus on infrastructure grant to address issues of wastewater treatment in
bottlenecks. the two regions to ensure the promotion of
sustainable and responsible tourism.
10
The World Bank, in partnership with the
The Bank’s regional development activities International Union for Conservation of Nature
bring direct benefits to residents. The number of (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), is
hotel beds as well as of SME points of sales (tickets, implementing the EU-funded European Neighborhood
souvenirs shops, restaurants, hotels, guest houses, and Partnership Instrument East Countries Forest Law
and family houses) in renovated tourism and culture Enforcement and Governance Program (FLEG) II in
heritage sites and cities has increased by about 25 Georgia, which is one of the seven beneficiary
percent since 2011. In addition, residents are directly countries of this program. The Bank-financed
benefiting from an improved water supply (from Country Environmental Analysis explored public
eight to 24 hours per day) and reduced vehicle environmental expenditure, the cost of
operating costs as a result of rehabilitated, safer, and environmental degradation, and an institutional
well-lit streets. framework for environmental management in
Georgia.
Picture 6. Urban Regeneration in Telavi, Kakheti
Region
THE WORLD BANK PROGRAM IN
GEORGIA
The Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) for
FY14–17 envisages a new lending envelope of about
US$1.18 billion, roughly 30 percent higher than the
program delivered under the previous CPS (US$823
million in FY10–13). Georgia graduated from the
International Development Association (IDA) as of
the end of the IDA 16 Replenishment period.
The objectives of the CPS are to reduce poverty
The regional development program has all the and support inclusive growth focused on job
prerequisites of becoming one of the flagships creation. These objectives are fully aligned with the
of Georgia’s cooperation with the World Bank. Government’s Socioeconomic Development
The program is designed to improve the quality of
Strategy. The CPS objectives are supported through
life of the local population, create job opportunities, two areas of focus: (i) strengthening public service
and generate public-private partnerships (PPPs) in delivery to promote inclusion and equity, and (ii)
collaboration with IFC. promoting job creation and competitiveness to
enable private sector–led inclusive growth.
Environment
The current portfolio consists of 10 active
Environmental management remains a investment projects financed by IDA
challenge, but efforts are being made to credits/IBRD loans for a total of US$670 million,
improve the situation. Georgia’s public policies to of which US$200 is IDA. About US$303 million is
protect the environment and natural resources were undisbursed. In addition to IDA/IBRD operations,
initially driven by excessive deregulation, resulting in there is an active program of four recipient-executed
the unsustainable use of natural resources and Trust Fund operations for about US$12.8 million,
environmental damage. The outlook for enhancing of which about 92 percent is undisbursed. Analytical
the policy and regulatory framework improved with and Advisory Activities (AAA) further contribute to
recent institutional reforms, and a number of program implementation. The AAA program of the
important pieces of environmental legislation are current fiscal year is on track and includes activities
under preparation, including a waste law, a water in various sectors and complements the lending
law, and a forest code. program.
11
INTERNATIONAL FINANCE IFC Strategy in Georgia
CORPORATION The new World Bank Group Country Partnership
Strategy for financial years 2014-2017—approved
Georgia became an IFC member and by the Board in May 2014—has two pillars:
shareholder in 1995. As of December 31, 2014, strengthening public service delivery to promote
IFC has provided a total of about US$665 million1 inclusive growth and enabling private sector-led job
in long-term finance, including US$272 million creation through improved competitiveness.
mobilized from partners, supporting 51 projects in Within this Country Partnership Strategy, IFC
the financial, agribusiness, manufacturing, services, works to:
and infrastructure sectors. In addition, IFC has
supported trade flows worth more than $292  Contribute to greater financial intermediation
million2 through its trade finance program. IFC has and increase access to finance for MSMEs
also implemented a number of advisory projects through the provision of trade finance, risk
focused on private sector development. management products, longer term senior and
subordinated debt, and equity;
 Promote sustainable private sector-driven
growth through increased trade and increased
1 Starting on July 1, 2014, IFC shifted from reporting its competitiveness of local companies;
cumulative commitment volume as a sum of short-term trade finance  Help develop the country’s significant
and long-term finance to reporting only long-term commitments. renewable energy potential;
Short-term finance is now reported as the average annual
outstanding portfolio balance in a given fiscal year.  Support improvements in productivity for
agricultural processing and food safety;
2 Total trade supported is measured as all trade
transactions in which the given country is either the  Foster the development of public-private
country of import or the country of export. partnerships.
12
ONGOING PROJECTS
THIRD EAST-WEST HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
Key Dates:
Approved: September 10, 2009
Effective: November 3, 2009
Closing: June 30, 2016 (Additional Financing)
Financing in million US Dollars:
Financier Financing Disbursed* Undisbursed
IDA Credit 43.00 27.41 10.81
IBRD Loan 147.00 147.00 0.00
Government of Georgia 47.87
Total 237.87 174.41 10.81
*World Bank Disbursements as of April 2, 2015
Note: Disbursements may differ from financing due to exchange rate fluctuations at
the time of disbursement.
The Project Development Objectives are to (i) contribute to the gradual reduction of road transport costs and improve
access, ease of transit, and road safety along the central part of Georgia’s East -West corridor, and (ii) strengthen the capacity
of the Government, the Roads Department, and other relevant government entities to plan and manage the road network and
improve traffic safety. The project builds on the Bank’s past projects and addresses some of the remaining policy and
investment gaps in the road sector. Specifically, the project envisages an upgrade of the 15-kilometer segment of the E60 East-
West Highway from Sveneti to Ruisi to a dual carriageway. The East-West Highway will be selected to implement a holistic
approach to traffic safety along part of the E60 corridor, which will integrate ambulance services, police, first aid training, and
other safety measures under the corridor safety management plan. As a result of the project, road users will get a better road
quality and level of service, avoid costly congestion, experience better road safety, and save on travel time. With the Additional
Financing in the amount of US$43 million, the existing Ruisi-Agara road section will be upgraded and the Agara Bypass will be
constructed as a dual carriageway road. Overall 34 kilometers of road will be upgraded.
Results achieved to date:
 Construction work for a 15-kilometer segment of the E60 Highway from Sveneti to Ruisi is complete. The road, two
tunnels, and the bridge over Liakhvi River are open for traffic.
 Institutional strengthening and road safety components have begun to be implemented, and road safety audits have
been conducted. Monitoring and evaluation outputs have recently improved.
 Transit time from Sveneti to Ruisi has decreased from 12 to 8.1 minutes.
 Vehicle operating costs from Sveneti to Ruisi have decreased to US$0.17 per kilometer for cars and to US$0.71 per
kilometer for trucks—target overachieved.
 Transit time from Sveneti to the Agara Bypass has decreased from 27 to 23.2 minutes.
 Vehicle operating costs from Sveneti to the Agara Bypass have decreased to US$0.19 per kilometer for cars and to
US$0.74 per kilometer for trucks.
 Road fatalities on the East-West Highway from Senaki to Tbilisi have been reduced by 43 percent.
 Around 50 percent of works are completed on the Ruisi to Agara Bypass financed under the Additional Financing.
Key Government Partners: Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure (MRDI), responsible for policy setting;
Roads Department under the MRDI, responsible for implementing the project; and the Transport Reform and Rehabilitation
Center (TRRC), responsible for financial management and disbursement functions within the project.
Key Development Partners: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Asian Development Bank (ADB), Millennium
Challenge Corporation (MCC), European Commission (EC), European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Kuwait Fund, which
have been financing (or plan to finance) different sections of Georgia’s road network.
FOURTH EAST-WEST HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
Key Dates:
Approved: May 6, 2013
Effective: August 5, 2013
Closing: February 28, 2018
Financing in million US Dollars:
Financier Financing Disbursed* Undisbursed
IDA Credit 37.00 15.06 18.74
IBRD Loan 38.00 0.95 37.91
Government of Georgia 18.75 -- --
Total 93.75 16.01 56.65
* World Bank Disbursements as of April 2, 2015
Note: Disbursements may differ from financing due to exchange rate fluctuations at
the time of disbursement.
The Project Development Objectives are to (i) contribute to the gradual reduction of road transport costs and improve
road safety along the section upgraded under the project; and (ii) strengthen the capacity of the Roads Department (RD) and
the Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure (MRDI) to plan and manage the road network and improve road
traffic safety. The project development objectives are similar to those used in the current East-West Highway projects
supporting the improvements to the E60 highway since they contribute to the achievement of the overall objective of
improving the E60 East-West Highway Corridor westward from Tbilisi.
The project is designed to upgrade the existing East-West Highway through the construction of a two-lane dual carriageway
from Agara to Zemo Osiauri. The length of the section of the E60 to be upgraded is about 12 kilometers and contains two
interchanges, two bridges, several overpasses and underpasses, and approximately 3.4 kilometers of riverbank protection. The
project will also finance maintenance of the E60 two-lane dual carriageway between Natakhtari and Ruisi (approximately 67
kilometers) through a multiyear maintenance contract to assure the continued serviceability of this section of the E60.
Results to be achieved:
 Transit time from Agara to Zemo Osiauri will be reduced by three minutes, or 30 percent
 Vehicle Operating Costs from Agara to Zemo Osiauri (cars) will be reduced by 10 percent to US$0.18/kilometer
 Vehicle Operating Costs from Agara to Zemo Osiauri (trucks) will be reduced by 5 percent to US$0.72/kilometer
 Number of road fatalities will be reduced by 25 percent
Key Government Partners: Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure (MRDI), responsible for policy setting;
Roads Department under the MRDI, responsible for implementing the project; and the Transport Reform and Rehabilitation
Center (TRRC), responsible for financial management and disbursement functions within the project.
Key Development Partners: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Asian Development Bank (ADB), Millennium
Challenge Corporation (MCC), European Commission (EC), European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Kuwait Fund, which
have been financing (or plan to finance) different sections of Georgia’s road network.
14
SECOND SECONDARY AND LOCAL ROADS PROJECT
Key Dates:
Approved: March 15, 2012
Effective: May 24, 2012
Closing: June 30, 2017
Financing in million US Dollars:
Financier Financing Disbursed* Undisbursed
IDA Credit 40.00 39.30 0.00
IBRD Loan 30.00 10.86 19.14
Government of Georgia 17.50 -- --
Total 87.50 50.16 19.14
* World Bank Disbursements as of April 2, 2015
Note: Disbursements may differ from financing due to exchange rate fluctuations at
the time of disbursement.
To boost the country’s economy and diversify sources of growth, Georgia is focusing on developing selected sectors, including
infrastructure, agriculture and agro-industries, and tourism, with the expectation that this would create jobs. Rehabilitating
secondary and local roads and improving local connections are also known to stimulate agricultural development. Further,
reduced transport costs would lower agriculture sector costs, thus making agricultural products more competitive.
The Project Development Objective is to improve local connectivity and travel time for selected secondary and local roads
and to strengthen the capacity of the Roads Department (RD) to manage the road network. The project envisages
rehabilitating and improving up to 200 kilometers of various sections of the secondary and local road network throughout
Georgia. As a result of the project, travel time will be reduced by 20 percent on the targeted road sections. A Performance-
Based Contract (PBC)/Output- and Performance-based Rehabilitation Contract (OPRC) will be piloted.
Out of 225 kilometers of secondary and local roads to be rehabilitated under the project, about 182 kilometers of roads have
been rehabilitated.
Results achieved to date:
 Travel time on rehabilitated sections has decreased on average by 44 percent, affecting over 150,000 direct beneficiaries
 Roads in good and fair condition as a share of total classified roads has improved from 30 to 33 percent
 19 safety audits have been conducted
Key Government Partners: Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure (MRDI), responsible for policy setting;
Roads Department under the MRDI, responsible for implementing the project; and the Transport Reform and Rehabilitation
Center (TRRC), responsible for financial management and disbursement functions within the project.
Key Development Partners: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Asian Development Bank (ADB), Millennium
Challenge Corporation (MCC), European Commission (EC), European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Kuwait Fund, which
have been financing (or plan to finance) different sections of Georgia’s road network.
15
THIRD SECONDARY AND LOCAL ROADS PROJECT
Key Dates:
Approved: July 3, 2014
Effective: November 6, 2014
Closing: September 30, 2018
Financing in million US Dollars:
Financier Financing Disbursed* Undisbursed
IBRD Loan 75.00 7.87 67.13
Government of Georgia 18.75
Total 93.75 7.87 67.13
* World Bank Disbursements as of April 2, 2015
Note: Disbursements may differ from financing due to exchange rate fluctuations at
the time of disbursement.
The Secondary and Local Roads Projects (SLRP) have contributed to improving the condition of roads and building the
technical and management capacity of the Roads Department. A total of 1,054 kilometers of secondary and local roads were
rehabilitated by 2012 under SLRP I and 225 kilometers will be rehabilitated by 2017 under the ongoing SLRP II. This has
contributed to bridging the road rehabilitation backlog and increasing the share of secondary and local roads in good and fair
condition from 45 to 49 percent and from 16 to 17 percent, respectively.
The Project Development Objective is to reduce transport costs on project roads and improve the sustainability of road
asset management in the secondary and local project road network. The Third SRLP will improve 200 kilometers of key
regional and local road sections, which will provide better access to three major towns (Telavi, Samtredia, and Tsalenjikha),
126 villages, and around 45,600 households, totaling a population of roughly 138,000 inhabitants.
Expected Results:
 Travel time on rehabilitated sections will decrease: average speed will increase by 20 kilometers per hour
 Vehicle operating costs will decrease on average by 22 percent for cars and 27 percent for trucks
 Improved condition of project roads (as measured by international roughness index - IRI) from 12 to 3
 Roads in good and fair condition as a share of total classified roads will improve by 2.4 percentage points
Results achieved to date:
 All 10 road sections of the first-year program have been contracted out.
Key Government Partners: Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure (MRDI), responsible for policy setting;
Roads Department under the MRDI, responsible for implementing the project; and the Transport Reform and Rehabilitation
Center (TRRC), responsible for financial management and disbursement functions within the project.
Key Development Partners: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Asian Development Bank (ADB), Millennium
Challenge Corporation (MCC), European Commission (EC), European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Kuwait Fund, which
have been financing (or plan to finance) different sections of Georgia’s road network.
16
KAKHETI REGIONAL ROADS IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
Key Dates:
Approved: November 10, 2009
Effective: December 8, 2009
Closing: August 30, 2015
Financing in million US Dollars:
Financier Financing Disbursed* Undisbursed
IBRD Loan 30.00 29.40 0.00
Government of Georgia 7.50 -- --
Total 37.50 29.40 0.00
* World Bank Disbursements as of April 2, 2015
Note: Disbursements may differ from financing due to exchange rate fluctuations at
the time of disbursement.
Roads are a lifeline for the economic activities of most Georgians, and even in the main foreign trade road corridors, up to 90
percent of the traffic is local users. In the Kakheti region, the main activities are the wine industry and tourism. A reliable
transport network is essential to stimulating both of these activities as well as to reducing poverty in rural areas.
The Project Development Objective is to reduce transport costs and improve access and traffic safety for Kakheti regional
roads. The project entails (a) rehabilitating the 65-kilometer Vaziani-Gombori-Telavi (VGT) road, mainly along its existing
alignment; (b) rehabilitating the 17 kilometer Sasadilo-Sioni road under a design-build contract; (c) implementing traffic safety
improvement measures on the VGT road and along the existing alignment of the Vaziani-Sagarejo-Bakurtsikhe-Gurjaani-
Telavi road; (d) strengthening the operational effectiveness of the Sagarejo Regional Office of the Roads Department; and (e)
conducting the Roads Safety Awareness and Education Campaign in the Kakheti region.
Results achieved to date:
 75 kilometers of roads have been rehabilitated
 Traffic volume for trucks between Vaziani and Telavi via Gombori has increased about five times
 Travel time to Vaziani and Telavi via Gombori has decreased from 120 to 50 minutes
 Vehicle operating costs have decreased significantly, from US$0.36 to US$0.25 for cars and from US$1.05 to US$0.72
for trucks
 The number of road crashes with fatalities along the Vaziani-Sagarejo-Bakurtsikhe-Gurjaani-Telavi road has declined by
52 percent.
Key Government Partners: Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure (MRDI), responsible for policy setting;
Roads Department under the MRDI, responsible for implementing the project; and the Transport Reform and Rehabilitation
Center (TRRC), responsible for financial management and disbursement functions within the project.
Key Development Partners: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Asian Development Bank (ADB), Millennium
Challenge Corporation (MCC), European Commission (EC), European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Kuwait Fund, which
have been financing (or plan to finance) different sections of Georgia’s road network.
17
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT – 1 (Kakheti)
Key Dates:
Approved: March 20, 2012
Effective: May 31, 2012
Closing: December 31, 2016
Financing in million US Dollars:
Financier Financing Disbursed* Undisbursed
IBRD Loan 60.00 53.62 6.38
Government of Georgia 15.00 --
Total 75.00 53.62 6.38
* World Bank Disbursements as of April 2, 2015
Note: Disbursements may differ from financing due to exchange rate fluctuations at
the time of disbursement.
In response to global economic uncertainties, the Government of Georgia is trying to ensure that its economic reform program
is also backed by a strong public investment program. The Government has therefore launched several regional development
initiatives to attract private sector investors to various areas. Georgia, however, has not yet fully tapped its potential to promote
sustainable tourism in promising regions, such as Kakheti, which has long been at the heart of Georgia’s ancie nt culture and
economy. The tourism strategy proposes to develop Kakheti as a high-quality destination year-round. It seeks to attract both
domestic and international tourists, building on its cultural heritage and biodiversity.
The Project Development Objective is to improve infrastructure services and institutional capacity to support the
development of a tourism-based economy and cultural heritage circuits in the Kakheti region. The activities envisaged under
the project are expected to bring benefits to the residents and tourists in Kakheti. The implementation of the project is
expected to improve access to, and the quality and reliability of, public infrastructure; increase the volume of private sector
investment in the region; and increase points of sales in renovated cultural heritage sites and cities. The Government will
benefit from the improved institutional capacity of selected agencies and LSGs. Overall, the population is expected to see
improved welfare and revenues.
Results achieved to date:
 210 building facades have been rehabilitated in Telavi and Kvareli
 Water supply, sewage networks, 71,613 square meters (m2) of asphalt road/sidewalks, 20,824 m2 of cobblestone paving,
530 lighting posts, and three public parks rehabilitated in central Telavi and Kvareli
 Volume of private sector investments has reached US$10 million (end-of-project target: US$50 million)
 40,400 people in urban areas provided with access to all-season roads within a 500-meter range under the project
 Weighted average number of hours per day of piped water services in project areas increased from eight hours/day to
12 (end target: 24 hours/day)
 Weighted average vehicle operating costs due to improved urban roads have been reduced by 10 percent (end target: 25
percent)
 Number of hotel beds in circuit route increased by 69 percent from 1,610 to 2,719, well above the target of 1,932 beds
 Number of points of sales in renovated cultural heritage sites and cities increased by 21 percent from 248 to 300 (end
target: 323)
 About 3,500 new jobs have been created.
Key Government Partners: Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure (MRDI), Ministry of Finance (MoF),
Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development (MoESD), Municipal Development Fund (MDF), Cultural Heritage
Fund, Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation, Protected Areas Agency, National Tourism Administration, United Water
Supply Company (UWSC), and Kakheti regional and local governments.
Key Development Partners: Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), European Union (EU),
German Technical Cooperation Agency (GiZ), U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Swiss Agency
for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
18
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT – 2 (Imereti)
Key Dates:
Approved: November 6, 2012
Effective: January 29, 2013
Closing: June 30, 2017
Financing in million US Dollars:
Financier Financing Disbursed* Undisbursed
IDA Credit 30.00 16.21 11.07
Government of Georgia 7.50 --
Total 37.50 16.21 11.07
* World Bank Disbursements as of April 2, 2015
Note: Disbursements may differ from financing due to exchange rate fluctuations at
the time of disbursement.
Georgia intends to fully tap into its potential to promote sustainable tourism in attractive regions such as Kakheti and Imereti.
Bank involvement under the proposed programmatic approach to regional development will ensure continued support to (a)
growth in the tourism sector, (b) growth of underdeveloped areas, and (c) the leveraging of public and private investment.
The Imereti spatial economic analysis 2 and Imereti Regional Development Strategy 3 have identified tourism, industry, and
trade as the main drivers of economic growth in the region. Imereti is home to several cultural heritage sites, as well as to
significant natural and protected areas.
The Project Development Objective is to improve infrastructure services and institutional capacity to support the increased
contribution of tourism to the local economy of the Imereti region. Project activities are expected to benefit Imereti’s residents
and tourists. They are also expected to improve access to, and the quality and reliability of, public infrastructure; increase the
volume of private sector investment in the region; and increase small and micro enterprises in renovated cultural heritage sites
and cities. The Government will benefit from the improved institutional capacity of selected agencies and the improved
capacity to operate and maintain assets.
Results achieved to date:
 Number of hotel beds in circuit route areas increased by 48 percent (from 2,661 to 3,943)
 Number of hours per day of piped water services in Tskaltubo increased from eight to 12 (end target is 18)
 Number of household water connections that are benefiting from rehabilitation works: 2,000 (end target is 5,000)
 Energy efficiency of street lights has improved by 20 percent
Expected Results:
 Volume of private sector investments will increase by US$20 million
 Revenues from tickets sold at Vani museum will increase from US$10,500 to US$89,000 per annum
Key Government Partners: Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure (MRDI), Ministry of Finance (MoF),
Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development (MoESD), Municipal Development Fund (MDF), Cultural Heritage
Fund, Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation, Protected Areas Agency, National Tourism Administration, Georgian
National Museum, United Water Supply Company (UWSC), and Imereti regional and local governments.
Key Development Partners: Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA)*, European Union (EU),
German Technical Cooperation Agency (GiZ), U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Swiss Agency
for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
*The World Bank leveraged a US$10 million grant from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency to address environmental
issues in Tskaltubo and Telavi (Kakheti region) through the rehabilitation of wastewater treatment plants.
19
IRRIGATION AND LAND MARKET DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
Key Dates:
Approved: May 23, 2014
Effective: Not yet effective
Closing: July 31, 2019
Financing in million US Dollars:
Financier Financing Disbursed* Undisbursed
IDA Credit 50.0 0.0 44.70
Total 50.0 0.0 44.70
* World Bank Disbursements as of April 2, 2015
Note: Disbursements may differ from financing due to exchange rate fluctuations at
the time of disbursement.
Agriculture remains an important sector in Georgia, given that over 50 percent of the population works in agriculture, which
constitutes about 25 percent of exports. Subsistence agriculture accounts for 75 percent of rural employment and 45 percent
of rural income. However, the share of agriculture to GDP has significantly declined (from 25 percent in 1999 to about 8
percent in 2012), though it has started to increase again due to the Government’s focus on the sector, recording 8.2 percent
in the first six months in 2013. The Government’s draft Socioeconomic Development Strategy 2020 recognizes the poor
condition of agriculture and focuses strongly on rebuilding services for small farmers, promoting cooperative development,
and restoring infrastructure. The Government is increasing public funding to agriculture, either through specific funds (to
promote private sector participation) or subsidies to small-holder farmers. Two key constraints to investment in agriculture
are poor irrigation and weak land markets. During the past 25 years, the irrigated area has declined from 386,000 hectares in
1988 to 25,000 hectares in 2013 due to weak investment in irrigation infrastructure and institutions. While Georgia has a
modern national registration agency, it is estimated that only 15–20 percent of land titles are registered.
The Project Development Objective is to improve the delivery of irrigation and drainage services in selected areas and
develop improved policies and procedures as a basis for a national program of land registration.
Expected Results:
About 31,000 farming households cultivating approximately 26,000 hectares of agricultural land on which irrigation and
drainage services will be improved will benefit directly from increased agricultural productivity under the project. Up to 10
percent of these households are headed by a female and about 78 percent of all households were employed in agriculture in
2012. Additionally, about 19,000 households holding unregistered agricultural land plots in pilot areas for land registration
will benefit from the improved policies and procedures generated under the project and the opportunity to register their
land. In the longer term, all rural households in Georgia holding unregistered agricultural land plots (approximately 640,000
households) will similarly benefit.
Key results expected:
 50,000 farmers will benefit from the project
 26,000 hectares will be provided with improved irrigation and drainage services
 31,000 water users will be provided with new or improved irrigation and drainage services
 A national irrigation and drainage strategy will be prepared and endorsed
 Recommended policies and procedures for a national program of land registration will be submitted to the
Government
Key Government Partners: Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), Ministry of Justice (MOJ), United Amelioration Service
Company for Georgia (UASCG), and the National Agency for Public Registry (NAPR).
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TRANSMISSION GRID STRENGTHENING PROJECT
Key Dates:
Approved: May 13, 2014
Effective: December 29, 2014
Closing: March 31, 2019
Financing in million US Dollars:
Financier Financing Disbursed* Undisbursed
IBRD Loan 60.0 0.75 59.25
Government of Georgia 1.88
Total 61.88 0.75 59.25
* World Bank Disbursements as of April 2, 2015
Note: Disbursements may differ from financing due to exchange rate fluctuations at
the time of disbursement.
Affordable and reliable clean energy is essential for Georgia’s private sector to compete, grow, and contribute to the kind of
job creation necessary for boosting shared prosperity. Although Georgia has no overall shortage of supply, it is highly
dependent on imported power to meet seasonal demand, raising concerns over the security of supply. Without major
investments in domestic seasonal generation, the security of the power supply will diminish even further as Georgia’s economy
grows. Even with a major increase in power generation capacity, the weak parts of the transmission grid will impede the
security of supply. The proposed Transmission Grid Strengthening Project (TGSP) will address the following key issues: (i)
the lack of a hydropower development plan optimized for enhancing the security of supply, realizing the economic benefits
of hydropower assets, and minimizing adverse environmental and social impacts; and (ii) inadequate infrastructure for a major
increase in the power trade.
The Project Development Objective is to provide reliable power transmission to the southwestern part of the grid, upgrade
electricity exchange systems, and provide economically efficient and environmentally and socially sustainable electricity sector
planning.
Expected Results:
All power consumers of Georgia will benefit either directly or indirectly from an adequate and more reliable electricity supply
transmitted from a cleaner source of power. The power consumers in the Ajara region will be direct beneficiaries of an
improved quality of power supply, particularly Batumi. The power from new hydropower stations on the Adjaristsqali river
will provide an important additional flow of revenues to Georgia’s economy.
Key results expected:
 142 kilometers of transmission lines will be constructed or rehabilitated
 Total duration of outages in Batumi will decrease from 136 hours to 0.5 hours per annum
 Total electricity evacuated from the newly developed power generation stations in southwestern Georgia through the
grid will reach 400 gigawatt hours (GWh) by the end of the project.
Key Government Partners: Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Environment, and Georgia State Electrosystem (GSE).
Key Development Partners: International Finance Corporation (IFC), Asian Development Bank (ADB), European Bank
for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
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INTERNATIONAL FINANCE CORPORATION
IFC SUPPORTS BANK OF GEORGIA IN EXPANDING LENDING TO SMALLER BUSINESSES
AND FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS
Key Dates:
Approved: June 25, 2012
Signed: June 28, 2012
IFC financing (US Dollars):
Financier Amount Fiscal Year (starts
July 1)
Loan 25 million 2012
The Challenge
The fact that many financial institutions in emerging markets do not tailor financial products and services to women
entrepreneurs represents a missed opportunity and constrains private sector development. Providing women with access to
finance from the Georgian finance sector represents a largely untapped market opportunity.
IFC supports female entrepreneurship as an important part of its mission to foster sustainable private sector growth in
developing countries. IFC works with financial institutions to expand financial services to women entrepreneurs through
specialized credit lines, market analyses, and capacity building. IFC launched its Banking on Women program in Europe
and Central Asia in 2011 to support lending to women through financial intermediaries.
The Project Development Objective
IFC has provided the Bank of Georgia, its long-term partner, with a US$25 million loan to expand lending to smaller
businesses, especially those owned by women, supporting financial inclusion and improving the competitiveness of
Georgia’s economy. The IFC loan is supporting the lender in reaching out to female entrepreneurs, who face more
challenges accessing credit than their male counterparts. Through the bank’s network of 164 branches, the program is
expected to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) inside and outside the capital expand and modernize.
This is IFC’s first loan in Georgia under its Banking on Women program, which helps women to play a greater role in the
economy.
Key Expected Results:
The project is expected to:
 Support SMEs in Georgia by providing them with much-needed long-term financing, boosting economic growth
 Encourage lending to women-owned businesses, helping improve the lives of many
 Have a strong demonstration effect, leading to increased international funding for the Georgian market
22
WORLD BANK GROUP AND IFC ADVISORY SERVICES PROJECTS IN GEORGIA
WORLD BANK GROUP
TRADE AND COMPETITIVENESS
Georgia Investment Climate Project (2013–16)
Donor Partners: Austria’s Federal Ministry of Finance, BP and its Oil and Gas Co-venturers, and the Norwegian
Trust Fund for Private Sector and Infrastructure.
The Challenge
Georgia has undertaken sweeping economic reforms in recent years, improving the investment climate. The
Government’s priorities are now focused on further improving the investment climate and strengthening
investor confidence to attract more foreign investment and boost economic growth. Reforms in the tax system,
investment policy, and trade logistics are expected to contribute to increased transparency and investor
confidence. These are crucial for growth in a small, open economy like Georgia and are high on the
Government’s agenda.
The World Bank Group Approach
The IFC Georgia Investment Climate Project aims to improve the investment climate in Georgia by increasing
the efficiency of regulations in three key areas: tax, trade logistics, and investment policy.
The project will work on:
 Taxation:
o Improving the legal framework and efficiency of administration of international taxation
procedures, with a focus on transfer pricing1
o Aligning Georgian tax legislation and implementation practices with global standards
following the guidelines of the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of
Information2
o Simplifying value added tax (VAT)–related administrative procedures and harmonizing them
with the legislation of European Union
 Trade logistics:
o Supporting an upgrade of customs automation system
o Supporting the simplification of import and export procedures
 Investment policy:
o Enhancing the legal and regulatory framework for investment in Georgia
The IFC Georgia Investment Climate Project is implemented by the World Bank Group Trade and
Competitiveness Global Practice.
Results achieved to date:
 Transfer pricing legislation has been adopted, which will help increase revenues from transfer pricing
audits
 Customs automation system has been upgraded, which will help reduce the administrative burden for
businesses
1
Transfer pricing occurs when two related companies —a parent company and a subsidiary, or two subsidiaries controlled by a
common parent—trade with each other.
2
The Global Forum is the multilateral framework within which work in the area of transparency and exchange of information has
been carried out by both the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and non-OECD economies since
2000. Georgia became a member of the Global Forum in 2011.
23
IFC ADVISORY SERVICES PROJECTS IN GEORGIA
Agribusiness Standards Advisory Program in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (2013–16)
Donor partner: The Ministry of Finance of Austria
The Challenge
The agribusiness industry is a vital contributor to the economies of Europe and Central Asia. However,
inadequate food safety standards keep the region’s agribusiness industry from advancing, while food companies
are shut out of the modern food value chains, potentially aggravating global food security.
The IFC Approach
The IFC program assists local companies in applying food safety standards throughout the agribusiness value
chain while also strengthening the capacity of local consultants. Improved standards will help agribusiness firms
meet regional and export market requirements while building a foundation to mobilize investments and help
the agribusiness industry realize its full potential.
Expected Results
The IFC program is expected to:
 increase the number of companies with food safety management systems in place, boosting their
competitiveness, investment attractiveness, and export opportunities;
 facilitate an increase in domestic and export sales by client companies;
 facilitate investments as a result of improved food safety management;
 build capacity among local consultants and firms;
 create a demonstration effect for how to do business more sustainably, across the region and globally.
Corporate Governance Program in Europe and Central Asia (2012–15)
Donor partners: the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Development Bank of
Austria (OeEB).
The Challenge
Good corporate governance helps companies and financial institutions to enhance their sustainability, access
capital, and improve their performance. Yet many companies and financial institutions in Europe and Central
Asia lack the knowledge and experience necessary to strengthen their governance practices so as to realize the
real benefits such practices can bring. Local consultants and institutions also lack the skills needed to help
businesses improve their corporate governance. In addition, the corporate governance framework in many
countries is in need of further enhancement.
The IFC Approach
The program provides in-depth advice to companies and financial institutions on implementing good corporate
governance practices, strengthens the capacity of local partner institutions to deliver director-focused training
and corporate governance services, and contributes advice on the corporate governance aspects of laws, codes,
regulations, and other tools.
Expected Results
The program aims to help its partners in Europe and Central Asia raise US$180,000 in sales revenue through
corporate governance work in order to improve the performance of 32 companies through corporate
governance improvements and to help 24 companies access financing totaling US$100 million.
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Resource Efficiency Program in Europe and Central Asia (2010–15)
Donor partner: the Ministry of Finance of Austria
The Challenge
The efficient use of energy, raw materials, and water along a company’s value chain not only helps conserve
resources and reduce waste, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions, but also reduces operating costs. Yet
many firms in Europe and Central Asia remain unaware of the potential cost savings and environmental
benefits. As a result, firms are reluctant to invest the upfront costs needed to identify and take advantage of
resource-efficiency opportunities.
The IFC Approach
The program works at the firm and sector levels to stimulate investment in resource-efficient technologies and
best practices, improve management and operational practices across industries, raise awareness among policy
makers and financial institutions, and drive market transformation through sector studies, such as
benchmarking and assessment tools.
Expected Results
The program aims to facilitate the investment of US$90 million and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 120,000
tons of CO2 annually in Europe and Central Asia.
Bank Advisory Program in Europe and Central Asia (2009–15)
Donor partners: the Development Bank of Austria, the Government of Luxemburg, and the Swiss State
Secretariat for Economic Affairs
The Challenge
The Europe and Central Asia region was among the hardest hit by the global financial crisis, and many financial
institutions remain vulnerable to further instability and lack the confidence to restart lending to the SME sector
in particular. That is a byproduct of insufficient knowledge about how to manage risk, best practice SME
lending skills, and the high rates of nonperforming loans (NPLs).
The IFC Approach
The program provides in-depth advice to help financial institutions strengthen their NPL and risk management
capabilities and increase lending to SMEs. It also supports the development of a market for distressed assets,
increases awareness of best international practices in risk and NPL management, and supports the development
of SME banking with a focus on gender finance.
Results to Date
The project has helped clients in Europe and Central Asia release more than US$51 million for new lending
and facilitated a further US$17 million in new financing to clients.
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MULTILATERAL INVESTMENT GUARANTEE AGENCY
GeoCapital, Georgia
Key Project Data:
Project name: GeoCapital, Georgia
Fiscal year: 2013
Status: Active
Guarantee holder: Principals of a microfinance organization operating in Georgia
Investor country: United States
Sector: Banking
Project Board date: May 28, 2013
Gross exposure: US$1.8 million
Project type: SIP
Strategic priority area: IDA
Project Description
On May 29, 2013, MIGA issued guarantees totaling US$1.8 million covering equity investments and shareholder loans by
two individual American investors in GeoCapital, Georgia. The coverage is for a period of up to three years against the risks
of transfer restriction, expropriation, and war and civil disturbance.
The project involves investment in the creation and subsequent expansion of operations of GeoCapital Microfinance
Organization LLC (GC), a fast-growing microfinance institution in Kutaisi (Imereti region), Georgia. GC offers small loans
primarily to individuals but also to micro and small businesses. The purpose of the loans is to provide working capital for
small businesses, house remodeling/repairs, education and medical expenses, and other general purposes. These loans are
extended to the large population of households and businesses that have had no or only limited access to credit.
In Georgia, access to finance is one of the main constraints for both companies and individuals. GC is helping a part of the
“unbankable” population gain access to credit and loans for purposes ranging from home equity loans to medi cal,
educational, and income-generation loans. As a large portion of these loans are extended to individuals, they enhance
Georgians’ capacity to pay for social services.
GC’s loans carry a lower interest rate than other microfinance institutions operating in the country. This competition has
resulted in other institutions reducing their rates by an annual average of 20 percent—to the benefit of low-income
consumers.
Since its establishment in 2011, GC has opened three branches and employs 30 people. The company has plans to open 17
new branches within the next three years.
The World Bank Group Country Partnership Strategy for Georgia recognizes that credit constraints are severe in the country,
and the project addresses this concern. MIGA’s support for this investment is also aligned with the agency’s strategy of
supporting investments in countries eligible for concessional lending from the International Development Association.
The project is underwritten through MIGA’s Small Investment Program.
26
MULTILATERAL INVESTMENT GUARANTEE AGENCY
ProCredit Group Central Bank Mandatory Reserves Coverage
Key Project Data:
Project name: ProCredit Group Central Bank Mandatory Reserves Coverage
Fiscal year: 2011
Status: Active
Guarantee holder: ProCredit Holding
Investor country: Germany
Sector: Banking
Project Board date: November 23, 2010
Gross exposure: US$9 million
Project type: non-SIP
Project Description
On December 22, 2010, MIGA issued a guarantee of US$9 million to ProCredit Holding (PCH) covering its investment in
its subsidiary in Georgia. The coverage is for a period of up to 10 years against the risk of expropriation of funds for
mandatory reserves held by the subsidiary in the central bank of its jurisdiction.
This project is part of a master contract that MIGA has issued. PCH is headquartered in Germany and is the parent company
of 21 banks (ProCredit group). The ProCredit group is a provider of finance to some 750,000 micro, small, and medium-
sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Latin America, Eastern and Central Europe, and Africa. Throughout the world, banks are
required to maintain mandatory reserves with the central banks of their respective jurisdictions. The ProCredit group’s capital
adequacy ratio (CAR) is calculated according to the German Banking Act. Under this act, at a consolidated level, reserves
deposited at the various central banks can attract a risk weighting of 100 or even 150 percent, depending on the country.
This risk weighting determines the amount of equity required to maintain a specified CAR in accordance with the German
Banking Act.
The guarantee issued by MIGA will help PCH obtain capital relief from the CAR requirements. By obtaining MIGA’s
insurance against the risk of expropriation of funds, the risk weighting for mandatory reserves held at the central bank can
be reduced. A lower risk weighting will allow PCH to free up equity currently tied up for CAR maintenance purposes, thereby
allowing these funds to be injected into its subsidiary banks. This in turn will allow PCH’s emerging market subsidiary banks
across its network to increase their lending activities.
MIGA’s support will help PCH optimize its capital management across its 21 banks, allowing PCH to direct equity to
subsidiaries with the greatest need. These banks will be able to offer additional financial services to MSMEs at a time of
macroeconomic challenges. Supporting productive small businesses will help stimulate growth, generate employment, and
reduce poverty.
MIGA’s support for this project is aligned with the World Bank Group’s microfinance strategy, which includes improving
the supply of microfinance in large but underserved markets; enhancing deposit capacity by assisting microfinance
institutions in savings mobilization; promoting capacity building; creating and shaping markets; and fostering innovation.
27
MULTILATERAL INVESTMENT GUARANTEE AGENCY
ProCredit Group Central Bank Mandatory Reserves Coverage
Key Project Data:
Project name: ProCredit Group Central Bank Mandatory Reserves Coverage
Fiscal year: 2012
Status: Active
Guarantee holder: ProCredit Holding AG & Co. KGaA
Investor country: Germany
Sector: Banking
Project Board date: December 1, 2011
Gross exposure: US$13.5 million
Project type: non-SIP
Project Description
On December 22, 2011, MIGA issued a guarantee of US$13.5 million to cover an investment by ProCredit Holding AG &
Co. KGaA in its subsidiary in Georgia. The coverage is for a period of up to 10 years against the risk of expropriation of
funds for mandatory reserves held by the subsidiary in the central bank of its jurisdiction.
MIGA provided coverage of US$9 million under the project in FY11. This additional coverage brings MIGA’s exposure
under the project to US$22.9 million.
This project is part of a master contract that MIGA has issued. ProCredit Holding AG & Co. KGaA is headquartered in
Germany and is the parent company of 21 banks (ProCredit group). The ProCredit group is a provider of finance to some
750,000 MSMEs in Latin America, Eastern and Central Europe, and Africa. Throughout the world, banks are required to
maintain mandatory reserves with the central banks of their respective jurisdictions. Currently, the ProCredit group’s capital
adequacy ratio (CAR) is calculated according to Basel II, but in the future it will also be calculated according to the German
Banking Act. Under this act, at a consolidated level, reserves deposited at the various central banks can attract a risk weighting
of 100 or even 150 percent, depending on the country. This risk weighting determines the amount of equity required to
maintain a specified CAR in accordance with the German Banking Act.
ProCredit Holding AG & Co. KGaA approached MIGA to obtain capital relief from the CAR requirements. By obtaining
MIGA’s insurance against the risk of expropriation of funds, the risk weighting for mandatory reserves held at the central
bank can be reduced. A lower risk weighting would allow ProCredit Holding AG & Co. KGaA to free up equity currently
tied up for CAR maintenance purposes, thereby allowing these funds to be injected into its subsidiary banks. This in turn
will allow ProCredit Holding AG & Co. KGaA’s emerging market subsidiary banks across its ne twork to increase their
lending activities.
MIGA’s support will allow ProCredit Holding AG & Co. KGaA to direct equity to subsidiaries with the greatest need. The
additional services these banks will be able to offer will help stimulate growth, generate employment, and reduce poverty.
MIGA’s support for this project is aligned with the World Bank Group’s microfinance strategy, which includes improving
the supply of microfinance in large but underserved markets; enhancing deposit capacity by assisting microfinance
institutions in savings mobilization; promoting capacity building; creating and shaping markets; and fostering innovation.
28